In 2008, I finally broke down and set up an account on Facebook. I had previously tried MySpace, but did not like it, thought it was boring. But then, when Nancy's children suggested we try Facebook, we were like, "why not?" and plunged into it. Well, needless to say, it was overwhelming at first, trying to figure out how to use it, and what to do. One of the first things we noticed were the number of games available to play. So, like little children, we started going into various games, checking them out, and picking specific games we each liked. It wasn't long before I found myself spending hours per day playing several different games.
So what is it about online games that make them so addicting? For me, it was the fact they were enticing. Once I started playing Farm Town, I wanted to complete the various quests so I could continue to level up. Next, I was able to invite Facebook friends to play the game with me, and to use their help to level up. Third, the games helped pass the time away. I could sit at the computer and play games instead of finding work to do around the house or go outside and do something worthwhile.
Hmmmm. I guess that pretty well describes me as a game addict. Spending time at the computer playing games rather than being productive elsewhere. Playing games can become addicting, and for many, it can lead to family issues, such as neglecting other family members (including children), not going to work, avoiding household chores, not doing schoolwork, or not taking part in family time.
It did not take me long to realize how Facebook games were wasting my time, and I gradually cut back on the number of games I played, and the amount of time I spent on each. Eventually I stopped playing Facebook games altogether. In fact, there are times when I am completely bored with Facebook itself. Although I still utilize the social media site for a few groups and pages I have created, I don't find it to be as useful and interactive in my daily life as it once was. I have turned to other means of activity to pass time, including short road trips and sightseeing trips with Nancy to area historical places and parks.
If you are addicted to online games, including those on Facebook, perhaps you may want to step back from the computer and take a break to think about what other activities you could be doing. Maybe a walk outside or visit a friend. You might want to take a short vacation to clear your head and find new hobbies.
Online games are addicting, and to me, a waste of time.
.......Just A Thought.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Monday, December 17, 2012
How Safe Is Your School?
Following the aftermath of the mass shooting at a Connecticut elementary school, parents nationwide are nervous about the potential risk of a similar incident in their local schools. In recent years, schools have implemented security and police officers into their school system to deter threats, but are they enough?
The key to school safety is not in the number of individuals providing security, but rather the process of providing security, such as metal detectors, locked doors, restricted access, and other methods.
If you were to go to your child's school today, what access restrictions would you face? Would you walk through metal detectors at the main entrance? Would you be able to walk unnoticed from the unlocked doors to your child's classroom? Would there be a security officer at the door to meet you and direct you to the main office to sign in?
Having worked as a school security officer in the past, I can say it is vital for every school to have someone continuously monitor any unlocked doors into the school, and have only one access into the building (preferably the front entrance). Also, every school should conduct lock-down drills at least twice during the school year to allow all children and staff an opportunity to discuss and learn proper procedures in case of an actual emergency.
The school I worked at did not allow me to monitor the unlocked main doors during the school day. Anyone could walk into the school building unnoticed, walk up to the Administration window, and rapidly shoot several staff members within seconds. To me, this is a disaster waiting to happen. Tighter security measures are needed to make this school safer.
Is your school safe?
....Just a Thought......
The key to school safety is not in the number of individuals providing security, but rather the process of providing security, such as metal detectors, locked doors, restricted access, and other methods.
If you were to go to your child's school today, what access restrictions would you face? Would you walk through metal detectors at the main entrance? Would you be able to walk unnoticed from the unlocked doors to your child's classroom? Would there be a security officer at the door to meet you and direct you to the main office to sign in?
Having worked as a school security officer in the past, I can say it is vital for every school to have someone continuously monitor any unlocked doors into the school, and have only one access into the building (preferably the front entrance). Also, every school should conduct lock-down drills at least twice during the school year to allow all children and staff an opportunity to discuss and learn proper procedures in case of an actual emergency.
The school I worked at did not allow me to monitor the unlocked main doors during the school day. Anyone could walk into the school building unnoticed, walk up to the Administration window, and rapidly shoot several staff members within seconds. To me, this is a disaster waiting to happen. Tighter security measures are needed to make this school safer.
Is your school safe?
....Just a Thought......
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Marriage Laws
I am not one who cares to share political views publicly on Facebook very often, but this year there is one issue that has been making headlines in Minnesota for months. On November 6, 2012, Minnesotans will be asked to vote on a Minnesota Constitutional Amendment regarding Marriage. The amendment is in regards to whether the State shall recognize only the union of one man and one woman in marriage. The proposed amendment reads as follows:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
to article XIII; recognizing marriage as only a union between one man and one
woman.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
Section 1. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROPOSED.
An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If the
amendment is adopted, a section shall be added to article XIII, to read:
Sec. 13. Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a
marriage in Minnesota.
Sec. 2. SUBMISSION TO VOTERS.
(a) The proposed amendment must be submitted to the people at the 2012 general
election. The question submitted must be:
"Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to provide that only a union of one
man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in Minnesota?
(b) The title required under Minnesota Statutes, section 204D.15, subdivision 1,
for the question submitted to the people under paragraph (a) shall be "Recognition of
Marriage Solely Between One Man and One Woman."
Filed with the Secretary of State May 25, 2011
https://www.revisor.mn.gov/laws/?id=88&doctype=Chapter&year=2011&type=0
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As to how I intend to vote on this ballot, I am not going to divulge my decision. What I do want to share with you is my opinion of the ballot itself. I have always been a very strong supporter of the U.S. Constitution, and feel the ballot is a violation against the "Separation of Church and State" phrase within the U.S. Bill of Rights First Amendment. As you know, the text of the Amendment reads "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." If you go back and read the first part, it says, "...or protecting the free exercise thereof..." Although the U.S. Constitution is in regards to Congress, I do believe the "Separation of Church and State" refers to the separation between religion as a whole and individual states. In other words, Minnesota (and other states) violate this clause when they propose and/or pass legislative issues related to church and/or religion. I believe Marriage is a sacred act that is passed down through centuries as a religious act, and is an issue that should not be legislated by our state or national government.
I would like to close by sharing part of a letter Thomas Jefferson wrote to a Baptist group in Massachusetts in 1802. He very eloquently shared his views on what is now known as the "Separation of Church and State" clause:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church & State. [Congress thus inhibited from acts respecting religion, and the Executive authorised only to execute their acts, I have refrained from prescribing even those occasional performances of devotion, practiced indeed by the Executive of another nation as the legal head of its church, but subject here, as religious exercises only to the voluntary regulations and discipline of each respective sect.] Adhering to this expression of the supreme will of the nation in behalf of the rights of conscience, I shall see with sincere satisfaction the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore to man all his natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to his social duties."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
......Just a Thought.........
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHAPTER 88--S.F.No. 1308
An act
proposing an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution; adding a section to article XIII; recognizing marriage as only a union between one man and one
woman.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
Section 1. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROPOSED.
An amendment to the Minnesota Constitution is proposed to the people. If the
amendment is adopted, a section shall be added to article XIII, to read:
Sec. 13. Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a
marriage in Minnesota.
Sec. 2. SUBMISSION TO VOTERS.
(a) The proposed amendment must be submitted to the people at the 2012 general
election. The question submitted must be:
"Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to provide that only a union of one
man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in Minnesota?
| Yes ..... |
|||
| No
.....
" |
for the question submitted to the people under paragraph (a) shall be "Recognition of
Marriage Solely Between One Man and One Woman."
Filed with the Secretary of State May 25, 2011
https://www.revisor.mn.gov/laws/?id=88&doctype=Chapter&year=2011&type=0
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As to how I intend to vote on this ballot, I am not going to divulge my decision. What I do want to share with you is my opinion of the ballot itself. I have always been a very strong supporter of the U.S. Constitution, and feel the ballot is a violation against the "Separation of Church and State" phrase within the U.S. Bill of Rights First Amendment. As you know, the text of the Amendment reads "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." If you go back and read the first part, it says, "...or protecting the free exercise thereof..." Although the U.S. Constitution is in regards to Congress, I do believe the "Separation of Church and State" refers to the separation between religion as a whole and individual states. In other words, Minnesota (and other states) violate this clause when they propose and/or pass legislative issues related to church and/or religion. I believe Marriage is a sacred act that is passed down through centuries as a religious act, and is an issue that should not be legislated by our state or national government.
I would like to close by sharing part of a letter Thomas Jefferson wrote to a Baptist group in Massachusetts in 1802. He very eloquently shared his views on what is now known as the "Separation of Church and State" clause:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church & State. [Congress thus inhibited from acts respecting religion, and the Executive authorised only to execute their acts, I have refrained from prescribing even those occasional performances of devotion, practiced indeed by the Executive of another nation as the legal head of its church, but subject here, as religious exercises only to the voluntary regulations and discipline of each respective sect.] Adhering to this expression of the supreme will of the nation in behalf of the rights of conscience, I shall see with sincere satisfaction the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore to man all his natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to his social duties."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
......Just a Thought.........
Monday, July 16, 2012
Political Follies
Ah, you can definitely tell it is a Presidential Election year. No matter where you look, you see political ads plastered all over the media, including Facebook. I am finding it difficult to go on my page and not see articles, images and wall posts related to Obama and Romney. Now, I understand everyone has opinions about either candidate, but I am finding the postings to be largely opposed to Obama and the Obamacare issue. Granted, Obama is President, but really.....is it necessary for people to be so hateful and biased of him? After all, he was elected by the majority of popular votes, as well as electoral votes. Also, he has had to deal with issues passed on to him from previous presidents. I personally find it unfair for so many people to slam someone who has tried to better our nation, and being blamed for congressional acts and bills that he had no control over. Also, it should be mentioned that he still holds a strong presence in public polls throughout the country, giving Romney a run for his money. Maybe if people would take time to actually review all of the good things Obama has done the past four years, they wouldn't be so biased and prejudiced of our current President. Time for everyone to take a step back and take a deep breath. We all live and share the same country. Let's show more respect for the man representing our country for a few more months. If the majority do not approve of his administrative duties and skills, the election results will reveal a new president. Until then, Barack Obama is still our President.
......Just a Thought.
......Just a Thought.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Pursue Your Education!
Speaking from the heart of a professional student, I would like to encourage all high school graduates to seriously consider their future right now. What do you want to achieve in life? What are your goals in five years? In ten years? Or 20 years from now? Are you ready to succeed in a career with only a high school diploma? With the knowledge and education you received in high school, will you be able to reach your dreams without college?
Now is the time to consider your future, and try to focus on what type of career in want in life. It is true that individuals in today's society may jump around in various careers in their lifetime, quite different than previous generations. But now is the time to take that first step towards achieving your dreams and goals by enrolling in a college or training school. Whether you pursue a short certificate program at a local community college, or seek a two-year or four-year degree, your future will be determined by your sincere desire to pursue more knowledge to provide yourself and a future family a more stable life in society. Many companies or businesses now require at least two years of college education, with many more larger corporations requiring at least four years or more.
So now the choice is yours. Are you ready to take that first step towards a successful career? Colleges are waiting for you. Be successful. Reach your goals. Fulfill your dreams. Be educated.
........Just a Thought......
Now is the time to consider your future, and try to focus on what type of career in want in life. It is true that individuals in today's society may jump around in various careers in their lifetime, quite different than previous generations. But now is the time to take that first step towards achieving your dreams and goals by enrolling in a college or training school. Whether you pursue a short certificate program at a local community college, or seek a two-year or four-year degree, your future will be determined by your sincere desire to pursue more knowledge to provide yourself and a future family a more stable life in society. Many companies or businesses now require at least two years of college education, with many more larger corporations requiring at least four years or more.
So now the choice is yours. Are you ready to take that first step towards a successful career? Colleges are waiting for you. Be successful. Reach your goals. Fulfill your dreams. Be educated.
........Just a Thought......
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Diversity
"There is not a black America and white American and Latino America and Asian America - there's the United States of America." Do you know who made that quote? It was during the 2004 Democratic National Convention, by our current President, Barack Obama.
No truer words could have been said, nor could I have said it any better. All 50 states of our nation are occupied by Americans of almost every nationality across the globe. In fact, a few states already have a higher ratio of minorities than white Americans. Our nation has become a "melting pot" of ethnicity and cross-cultural adversities.
Before one starts to base prejudicial thoughts or racial profiling, first consider a few facts. First, our continent's predecessors arrived here by crossing a land barrier between Asia and North America tens of thousands of years ago. These early inhabitants began their long journey from prehistoric Mesopotamia and North Africa. Second, if we all were to trace our ancestry back far enough, we would see we are natives of what is now the Mid East. And third, our more recent Ancestors arrived to this New World from every continent. We now inhabit the most diversified nation in the world.
Obama's statement eight years ago still sets the stage for millions of Americans, striving to live and work in an environment of diversity. One such workplace I am quite familiar with is IBM, here in Rochester, MN. This world-renowned company stresses the importance of diversity, and has no racial bias when it comes to hiring. Through Manpower Temps and other contractors, employees from all cultures work in harmony through teamwork. I have yet to see any discrimination amongst my fellow peers or managers. The company ranks at the top of my list of companies to work for. If only other businesses and corporations would follow in IBM's footsteps and allow cultural diversity to flow free throughout our nation.
Indeed, President Obama's 2004 speech signifies the truth that we are a nation of many ethnic groups. Fifty states of cultural diversity - a nation of many faces.
.......Just a Thought......
No truer words could have been said, nor could I have said it any better. All 50 states of our nation are occupied by Americans of almost every nationality across the globe. In fact, a few states already have a higher ratio of minorities than white Americans. Our nation has become a "melting pot" of ethnicity and cross-cultural adversities.
Before one starts to base prejudicial thoughts or racial profiling, first consider a few facts. First, our continent's predecessors arrived here by crossing a land barrier between Asia and North America tens of thousands of years ago. These early inhabitants began their long journey from prehistoric Mesopotamia and North Africa. Second, if we all were to trace our ancestry back far enough, we would see we are natives of what is now the Mid East. And third, our more recent Ancestors arrived to this New World from every continent. We now inhabit the most diversified nation in the world.
Obama's statement eight years ago still sets the stage for millions of Americans, striving to live and work in an environment of diversity. One such workplace I am quite familiar with is IBM, here in Rochester, MN. This world-renowned company stresses the importance of diversity, and has no racial bias when it comes to hiring. Through Manpower Temps and other contractors, employees from all cultures work in harmony through teamwork. I have yet to see any discrimination amongst my fellow peers or managers. The company ranks at the top of my list of companies to work for. If only other businesses and corporations would follow in IBM's footsteps and allow cultural diversity to flow free throughout our nation.
Indeed, President Obama's 2004 speech signifies the truth that we are a nation of many ethnic groups. Fifty states of cultural diversity - a nation of many faces.
.......Just a Thought......
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Letters to my 3 Dads
Letter to my Foster Dad:
Wow, I can't believe it has been 45 years since I last lived at your house. I was really young back then, wasn't I? I don't remember much of my toddler years, but do recall a few special moments, like when I had my own pet calf. Remember when you used to crack the bull whip to scare us kids down at the barn? Or when I would ride along when you and the boys would be out baling. MaryLou and Janice remind me how sad you were the day I had to leave to go live with my new adoptive parents. But remember how happy you and mom were when I came to your 50th Anniversary, and I stood at the front of the church to tell my story of living there for seven years? Those were some very special years for me, which I will never forget. Thank you for taking care of me while I was in your home.
Letter to my Adoptive Dad:
Where do I start? You and mom were definitely loving, caring parents, but I always seemed to have a much stronger bond to you. While there was such a large age gap between us, you seemed to know how to relate to me, and would always take time to spend father-son bonding time with me. I will never forget all the times we spent together, teaching me how to drive, and how to shoot guns safely. You were always there to comfort me when mom would be angry with me. I missed you a lot when you passed away. I know you and mom expected me to take over the farm when you were gone, but yet, you seemed to know in your heart that I wanted to choose a different path in my life. For that, I will always be grateful of you. Thank you for being a part of my life as my dad.
Letter to my Biological Dad:
Writing you is perhaps the hardest thing I have done in a long time. We never met, and I know very little of you. Remember when I located you through a friend of mine, and you wished I hadn't found you? I had a hard time accepting your response and was heartbroken for several years. But I still hope to learn more about you and what your life on earth was like. No matter the results of my search, I will always love you because you are my dad. And because we have Finley blood, we are strong fighters. I proved that after birth, and am still fighting to be a man of good morals and character. Because of you, I will continue to live life to the fullest, and cherish all past memories. Thank you, dad, for giving me life. Perhaps one day we will eventually meet in Paradise.
Wow, I can't believe it has been 45 years since I last lived at your house. I was really young back then, wasn't I? I don't remember much of my toddler years, but do recall a few special moments, like when I had my own pet calf. Remember when you used to crack the bull whip to scare us kids down at the barn? Or when I would ride along when you and the boys would be out baling. MaryLou and Janice remind me how sad you were the day I had to leave to go live with my new adoptive parents. But remember how happy you and mom were when I came to your 50th Anniversary, and I stood at the front of the church to tell my story of living there for seven years? Those were some very special years for me, which I will never forget. Thank you for taking care of me while I was in your home.
Letter to my Adoptive Dad:
Where do I start? You and mom were definitely loving, caring parents, but I always seemed to have a much stronger bond to you. While there was such a large age gap between us, you seemed to know how to relate to me, and would always take time to spend father-son bonding time with me. I will never forget all the times we spent together, teaching me how to drive, and how to shoot guns safely. You were always there to comfort me when mom would be angry with me. I missed you a lot when you passed away. I know you and mom expected me to take over the farm when you were gone, but yet, you seemed to know in your heart that I wanted to choose a different path in my life. For that, I will always be grateful of you. Thank you for being a part of my life as my dad.
Letter to my Biological Dad:
Writing you is perhaps the hardest thing I have done in a long time. We never met, and I know very little of you. Remember when I located you through a friend of mine, and you wished I hadn't found you? I had a hard time accepting your response and was heartbroken for several years. But I still hope to learn more about you and what your life on earth was like. No matter the results of my search, I will always love you because you are my dad. And because we have Finley blood, we are strong fighters. I proved that after birth, and am still fighting to be a man of good morals and character. Because of you, I will continue to live life to the fullest, and cherish all past memories. Thank you, dad, for giving me life. Perhaps one day we will eventually meet in Paradise.
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